The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has officially suspended all preparations for Hajj 2025 until further notice.
This directive, signed by the association’s president, AbdulLateef Yusuff Ekundayo, comes as a result of ongoing tensions between AHUON and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over unresolved financial disputes.
In a statement released to journalists on Thursday in Abuja, AHUON leadership called on its members to halt any submissions related to Hajj 2025, particularly forms and payments, until a counter directive is issued.
The association has been engaged in a prolonged dispute with NAHCON concerning accumulated refunds from previous Hajj operations, an issue that is yet to be resolved despite several appeals.
AHUON expressed frustration with NAHCON’s delay tactics, as the commission responded to the association’s repeated requests only recently, on September 24, 2024.
NAHCON’s justification for the delay was to synchronize the Hajj processing timeline with the Saudi Arabian Hajj calendar. However, AHUON members view this as an unacceptable excuse that does not address the pressing issue of the unpaid refunds.
The association’s National Executive Council (NEC), in consultation with its Board of Trustees (BOT), unanimously agreed that suspending the preparations for Hajj 2025 is necessary to ensure that their demands are met.
AHUON has vowed to explore all legal means to recover the refunds owed to its members and ensure that their rights are protected.
This suspension marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute and poses potential challenges for Hajj operators and pilgrims across Nigeria.
AHUON called on its members to remain patient and united during this difficult period, expressing hope that the matter will be resolved soon.
In an unprecedented demonstration of military might and strategic prowess, the Nigerian Armed Forces have neutralized over 1,937 terrorists in a series of operations conducted between July and September 2024.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations made this known while addressing the media at a press conference today in Abuja.
Maj. Gen. Buba outlined the successes of ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency campaigns aimed at crippling terrorist networks across the country.
He revealed that synchronized air and ground offensives were instrumental in weakening the operational capacity of terrorist factions, dealing a significant blow to their leadership structures.
The military offensive, described as relentless, resulted in the elimination of over 65 high-ranking terrorist leaders and commanders.
Among the notable figures neutralized were Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), and Ameer Modu, along with infamous combatants such as Matawal Bitrus and Thomas Benedict. These leaders had long been on the radar for spearheading insurgent activities in various regions.
“The destruction of terrorist leadership is central to our ongoing operations. Our forces are focused on dismantling these networks, and the list of those neutralized underscores our commitment to eradicating this threat,” Maj. Gen. Buba said
He disclosed that Nigerian troops also rescued 1,854 kidnapped hostages from captivity during the third quarter of the year.
The military reported the arrest of 2,782 suspected terrorists and criminal elements.
Additionally, troops recovered a staggering 1,304 weapons and over 43,000 rounds of ammunition.
Among the recovered armaments were 688 AK-47 rifles and 32,945 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.
These actions have significantly weakened the terrorists’ ability to regroup and launch new attacks.
The military operations extended beyond the battlefield, as troops disrupted illegal oil activities, preventing the theft of over N13 billion worth of crude oil. The breakdown includes the recovery of 12 million litres of stolen crude oil, 2.6 million litres of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), and over 31,000 litres of PMS (Petroleum Motor Spirit), alongside other valuable resources.
“These efforts are yielding results, and Nigeria’s daily crude oil production output has reached an all-time high. We are on track to meet our national production target,” the military spokesperson added.
As the Nigerian Armed Forces continue to intensify pressure on terrorist groups, Maj. Gen. Buba reiterated the military’s commitment to completely dismantling the infrastructure of terror.
“Our mission is clear: we will keep attacking any identified threats until these groups are decapitated and no longer able to launch terror attacks against our citizens,” he affirmed.
The military’s comprehensive efforts signal a turning point in the fight against terrorism, as the nation inches closer to restoring peace and stability across all regions.
In a strong call for enhanced global responsibility, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has urged the international community to strengthen its support for victims of terrorism.
Speaking at the United Nations Headquarters during the fifth Ministerial meeting of the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism in New York, Badaru reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of terrorism victims.
Badaru emphasized that Nigeria was proud to have contributed to the 2023 8th Review of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (GCTS), which underscored the importance of dignity, respect, and the involvement of victims in the fight against terrorism.
“The role of survivors in preventing and countering terrorism cannot be understated,” the minister remarked.
He urged for enhanced protection and comprehensive support for terrorism survivors and their communities.
Badaru called for inclusive, community-led initiatives that promote dialogue, tolerance, and social cohesion, as well as greater international investments in restoring quality education for those affected by terrorism.
“Education is a key pillar in providing employment and preventing terrorism recruitment,” he said, advocating for innovative educational solutions to empower victims.
He condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and the deliberate targeting of schools by terrorist groups, which have disrupted education and hampered the development of communities.
The Defence Minister praised the efforts of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, led by Vladimir Voronkov, in promoting international solidarity for victims of terrorism.
He reiterated that collective responsibility and action from the global community would contribute significantly to alleviating the plight of those affected by terrorism.
Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to both defending the rights of victims and providing them with the necessary support, as it continues to partner with global allies in the fight against terrorism.
His Excellency Bishop Dr S. Madhan Raj, the Sri Lankan Country Representative of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization (WSDGsO), has extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly sworn-in 9th President of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
In his congratulatory message, Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj expressed optimism for the future of Sri Lanka under the leadership of President Dissanayake, highlighting the President’s long-standing commitment to progressive ideals and his vision for a prosperous, unified nation.
“Your Excellency, your inauguration represents a new chapter in Sri Lanka’s history. As the country takes steps towards unity, peace, and sustainable development, I am confident that your administration will prioritize the needs of the people while fostering the values enshrined in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj stated.
He further noted that the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization stands ready to support the government in its efforts to promote sustainable growth, reduce inequality, and tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, economic reform, and social justice.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between governmental institutions and international organizations to achieve the global development agenda, ensuring no one is left behind.
Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj reiterated the organization’s commitment to working closely with the new government in addressing critical areas, including healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation, which align with both national priorities and the SDGs.
Bishop Dr. Madhan Raj called upon all Sri Lankans to unite in the pursuit of common goals, fostering peace, progress, and sustainable development.
In anticipation of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has laid out a series of high-impact initiatives.
Badaru made the announcement during a press briefing today at the Sani Abacha Hall, National Defence College, Abuja.
The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, outlined the nation’s ongoing security efforts, advances in the military sector, and the government’s commitment to veteran welfare, with the Armed Forces Remembrance Day serving as a momentous opportunity to honor Nigeria’s fallen heroes.
The 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, scheduled for January 15, 2025, will commemorate the sacrifices of Nigerian soldiers who laid down their lives, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War.
The Minister emphasized the symbolic importance of this day, stressing the need to remember and support both veterans and the families of fallen servicemen and women.
Badaru discussed Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, and banditry.
He noted that although the country has faced serious security challenges for more than a decade, the Nigerian Armed Forces have made significant progress in restoring peace and security.
“Thanks to the resilience and dedication of our troops, we now have a situation that is under control,” the Minister stated.
He revealed that more than 100,000 insurgents have surrendered in recent months, and several top commanders have been eliminated in coordinated operations.
The Minister also highlighted the success of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads.
He mentioned a notable operation in June 2024, during which the MNJTF neutralized terrorists and rescued 34 women and children in the Lake Chad region.
Furthermore, Nigerian Air Force airstrikes in Katsina State resulted in the elimination of over 80 terrorists, contributing to a 65% reduction in security breaches across the country.
While hinting the revitalization of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), he explained that the DICON Act, signed into law in November 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, has paved the way for Nigeria to become self-reliant in the production of military hardware, munitions, and ammunition.
“The revitalization of DICON is not just about bolstering our defence capabilities, it is a move toward national pride, self-sufficiency, and economic growth,” Abubakar stated.
He called on private and corporate investors to explore the opportunities DICON presents, particularly as the Ministry has already signed multiple agreements with local and foreign partners to establish a Military Industrial Complex in Nigeria.
This initiative will not only create thousands of jobs but also strengthen Nigeria’s defence technology sector. By producing munitions and equipment locally, the country stands to save millions of dollars that would have otherwise gone into imports, bolstering the local economy and strengthening the Naira.
The Honourable Minister outlined the series of activities planned for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, with a focus on remembering fallen heroes, supporting veterans, and honoring military personnel.
According to him, “The Notable activities include Nigerian Legion Humanitarian Day Scheduled for October 2, 2024, this event will see Legionnaires engage in community service while empowering the widows and orphans of fallen heroes across the nation. Also, there will be Emblem Launch by President Tinubu On October 23, 2024, President Tinubu will lead the launch of the official emblem for the 2025 celebration at the State House in Abuja. And also Jumma’at prayers at the National Mosque on January 10, 2025, followed by an interdenominational service at the National Christian Centre on January 12, 2025. These will be held in honor of Nigeria’s veterans. Wreath Laying CeremonyOn January 15, 2025, President Tinubu and other dignitaries will lay wreaths at the National Arcade in Abuja. This will be replicated in all states of the Federation, with governors leading the ceremony.”
The welfare of Nigeria’s veterans was a central theme of the press briefing, with Minister outlining several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for veterans and their families. Among the key projects is the establishment of Skills Acquisition Centres in each geopolitical zone.
He disclosed that the first of these centres, located in Taraba State, is nearing completion and will soon be operational.
“These centres are expected to equip veterans, widows, and dependants of fallen heroes with essential skills to support their livelihoods.” He added
The Minister also addressed issues surrounding military pensions, assuring veterans that the Military Pensions Board (MPB) is actively working to ensure regular pension payments and the prompt resolution of all grievances related to the Security Debarment Allowance (SDA).
Badaru called on all Nigerians to use the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day as an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the military and to foster national unity.
He also urged the media to provide extensive coverage of the day’s events, ensuring that the public remains aware of the enduring contributions of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
As the Ministry of Defence gears up for this significant occasion, it remains dedicated to bolstering national security, supporting the Armed Forces, and honoring the memory of Nigeria’s military heroes.
The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, has entered into a landmark partnership with Ecole Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC), Toulouse, France.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on Monday, September 23, 2024, marking a significant step towards advancing aviation education in Nigeria and Africa.
Leading the AAAU delegation was the university’s Registrar, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, who outlined the strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing educational and professional opportunities in the aviation sector. Key areas of the MOU include an Advanced Masters Programme for industry professionals and a student exchange programme, which will foster academic enrichment and knowledge transfer between the two institutions.
Additionally, the partnership includes provisions for advanced training for AAAU lecturers and opportunities for faculty members to engage in affiliated teaching roles at ENAC.
This agreement follows the initiative of Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), which began in February 2024. It is expected to solidify AAAU’s position as a leading aviation institution in Africa.
ENAC, renowned for its 70-year history in aviation education, operates under the French Civil Aviation Authority and offers a broad range of programs in aeronautics engineering, pilot training, and air navigation.
The institution boasts a diverse student body, state-of-the-art training facilities, and a highly experienced faculty. Its strategic partnership with Airbus, Europe’s largest aeronautics and space company, further strengthens its role in civil aviation education and research.
This collaboration is set to open new avenues for AAAU, providing access to ENAC’s vast expertise and resources, positioning it as a key player in the global aviation industry.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the Treaty of Pelindaba, which declares Africa a nuclear weapon-free zone.
Speaking at the high-level meeting of the “Friends of Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty” initiative, hosted by Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Badaru emphasized the importance of a nuclear-free Africa for future generations.
Nigeria joined several like-minded nations in launching a campaign advocating for a treaty that would prohibit the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and other explosive devices, aiming to curb the proliferation and enhancement of nuclear arsenals globally.
Badaru reaffirmed that Nigeria, along with the African continent, remains steadfast in its commitment to the Treaty of Pelindaba, which has long declared Africa as a nuclear weapon-free zone.
He emphasized that Nigeria will continue to play a leading role in global efforts for nuclear disarmament and the prevention of nuclear weapons proliferation.
“Nigeria remains a key advocate for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, actively participating in initiatives aimed at strengthening the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and advancing the proposed Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty (FMCT),” Badaru stated.
He added that the FMCT, once adopted, would prohibit the production of fissile materials for use in nuclear weapons, thereby enhancing global nuclear security.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of the FMCT in fostering transparency and cooperation between nuclear and non-nuclear states, promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
He called for full support from African nations and civil society organizations for the FMCT initiative.
As the cornerstone of global nuclear disarmament efforts, Badaru reiterated that the NPT remains vital to global security, and the adoption of the FMCT would only serve to reinforce its objectives.
He urged stakeholders worldwide to rally behind this crucial initiative.
The high-level meeting saw participation from several nations and civil society organizations, all dedicated to advancing global nuclear disarmament efforts.
Former Nigerian international, Tijani Babangida, marked his 51st birthday on September 25, 2024, with heartfelt appreciation for God’s goodness in his life. Babangida, who survived a devastating car accident that claimed the lives of his brother Ibrahim and son Fadir, acknowledged the significance of this milestone.
“This birthday is about thanking God for sparing my life,” Babangida said from the Netherlands, where he and his wife are undergoing final rounds of treatment. “I’m grateful for the outpouring of support and prayers from Nigerians during this challenging period.”
Babangida reserved special thanks for individuals and organizations that contributed to his and his wife’s treatment:
“I appreciate the Governor of Kaduna state, Senator Uba Sani; the president of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau; my former clubs, Ajax Amsterdam and VVV-Venlo; and numerous well-wishers who have stood by me. Your kindness and generosity have been overwhelming.”
“I want to also single out Alhaji Sadiq Mamma Lagos, commissioner for the Ministry for local government chieftancy affairs. He has been a brother indeed to me.
“I want to also express my deepest gratitude to the president of the Nigeria football federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau for all his shows of love and care. Not also forgetting my friend, Alhaji Shehu Dikko.
“Let me also express my heartfelt thanks to my friend Engr. Mike Auta for all his support. He is a friend indeed.
“I also do not want to forget members of the players Union, retired and current players. They were very supportive to me and I really appreciate them all.
“I know that there are lots and lots of people who contributed in several ways towards making me recuperate from the accident but there is no way I can mention all their names. They should have it at the back of their heart that I am highly grateful for,” TJ stated.
As he celebrates, Babangida emphasized his focus on spirituality and gratitude:
“This birthday is not about grand celebrations but about appreciating God and those who have been instrumental in my recovery. I’m humbled by the love and support.”
Babangida’s testament to resilience and faith serves as an inspiration to many.
Abuja – The Dr Hammed Abodunrin at Abuja, Head Quarters of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps , has been honoured with a Global Golden Award as “the most Notable and Top Distinguished Educator of the 21st Century” by the International Chartered World Learned Society, a United States-based organization, with offices in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania.
The vibrant Commandant and Academic Doctor has also been conferred with the Life Fellowship of the Society (in the field of Education Management and Security ), according to a letter addressed to Commandant Dr Hammed Abodunrin by Prof. Dr (Sir) S. R. Boselin Prabhu on behalf of the Society.
While conferring the awards on Commandant Dr Hammed Abodunrin at Head Quarters of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps recently, the World Grand President of the Society, UNESCO Laureate, The Africa Chairman of Unity of Nations for Climate Council an official partner of United Nations in person of Respected Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu, noted that the recognitions were based on Commandant Dr Hammed Abodunrin ’s immense contributions to the global knowledge industry through Nigeria Security and Civil Defence .
The insignia of the awards included certificates, a Global Certificate of Achievement as the most Notable and Top Distinguished Educator of the 21st Century, a muffler, a Global Golden medal, a Life Fellow Certificate and other instruments of the Society which were presented in recognition of “the avocation, enthusiasm and reputation” of the honouree.
While congratulating Commandant Dr Hammed Abodunrin on behalf of the World Grand Board of Directors, ICWLS, including Prof. Sir Sarfraz Lloyd of Oceania, Prof. Sir Abhiram Kukshreshtha of Asia, Prof. Sir M. Howard Pilley of Europe and Prof. Sir Luis Emilio Abad of the Americas, Prof. Aremu urged the recipient not to relent in his efforts of adding value to humanity.
According to Prof. Sir Aremu, who is also the Vice Chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc, Santa Cruz, Agentina, Commandant Dr Hammed Abodunrin is a shining example of diligence, excellence and competence from whom the present and future generations will continue to draw inspiration.
While responding to the presentation of awards, Commandant Dr Hammed Abodunrin appreciated the Grand President and the ICWLS Board of Directors for deeming him worthy of the honour.
He stressed that he considered the honour and Dedicated it to Safe School which he is privileged to serve as Commandant . He also expressed willingness to leverage the membership of the consortium in achieving the tripartite mandate of his Safe School viz teaching, research and community service.
The International Chartered World Learned Society is a worldwide independent organization, self-governing, pan-discipline educational charity according to the statutes. It provides expert scholars’ advice on a variety of public issues related to sciences, engineering, health sciences, arts, humanities, social sciences and so on.
The Society draws up considerable strength of distinguished scholars and professionals. all over the world.
Nigerians have been urged to underplay their ethnic, religious and political differences and embrace a culture of peace and harmony while breaking the barriers of conflict that may arise among them in order to make Nigeria attain its full potential.
This call was made by the Vice-Chancellor of African School of Economics, the pan-African university of excellence, Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji, on Friday in Abuja. Prof. Adedimeji made the call while making his presentation on “Cultivating a Culture of Peace: Build Bridges, Break Barriers” at the university as part of the activities marking this year’s UN International Day of Peace.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, “Cultivating a Culture of Peace” is this year’s Peace Day theme and it is apt and relevant because that is what the world needs most. Citing UNESCO, he described the culture of peace as “a set of values, attitudes, and behaviours that promote mutual understanding, respect and non-violent resolution of conflict.” He highlighted some of the values and attitudes that Nigerians must embrace as love, patience, forgiveness, truthfulness, trustworthiness, empathy, cooperation, discipline, justice, generosity, gratitude, mutual understanding and respect for one another.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, who is a Fellow of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, the world is undergoing turbulence with violent conflicts and their associated inhumanity ravaging many places across the world. The solutions to these problems, he said, are to work hard to unite people and communities, foster dialogue, promote mutual understanding and accept diversity.
Prof. Adedimeji emphasized the need to embrace positive mental attitude, noting that the difference between someone who sees a half-empty and a half-full bottle is attitude. He stressed that the window theory by which people seek to blame others for their woes should be replaced by the mirror theory which allows people to focus on themselves with a view to working out solutions.
The former Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ilorin, thereafter enjoined Nigerians to work hard and pray while noting that there are opportunities in challenges and with difficulty there is ease if everyone is positive to embrace good values and positive attitude at all times.
The event was anchored by Elijah Nsikak while contributions were made by various participants, some of whom included Samuel Ugwu, Dede Oluwamuinumidu, Priscilla Ochanya and Pascal Mathias. The three-day event with a seminar and public lecture climaxed with a peace walk on Saturday, the International Peace Day.
Let’s live in unity in spite of diversity – Don
A Professor of Applied Linguistics at the University of Ilorin, Sola Babatunde, has urged Nigerians to live in peace and unity in spite of their diversity, saying that peace is not the absence of conflict or storm but the ability to handle tough situations creatively.
Prof. Babatunde made the appeal while speaking at a seminar organised by the African School of Economics, otherwise called the Pan-African University of Excellence, on Thursday in Abuja. The seminar was organised as part of the activities marking the 2024 International Day of Peace on Saturday, September 21.
According to the scholar, water is doused with water and not by fire and the way forward for Nigerians in particular and Africans at large is to embrace peace and forgiveness, even if people are genuinely wronged. He noted that development will be elusive in an atmosphere of conflict, rancor and undue antagonism.
While presenting his paper, “The Might of Peace”, Prof. Babatunde emphasized that fostering peace in diversity is deploying strategies to create a synthesis from every thesis and antithesis. He said the secret of success in a pluralistic society is to learn to use conflict and differences constructively because conflict is part of life.
According to the acclaimed lecturer, who was the Director of the Centre for Linguistic Immersion at the University of Ilorin until recently, the world is made of opposites, positive and negative wires, darkness and light, male and female, happiness and sadness and many more. The capacity to maximize both forces to achieve balance and the greater good is the ultimate indicator of being responsible and successful.
To realise the might of peace in one’s life, the Guest Speaker advocated understanding each other’s language, learning and utilizing social skills of interaction, being patient with one another as well as establishing and maintaining relationships.
While welcoming the Guest Speaker and participants to the seminar, the Chairman of the occasion and Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji, noted that the university was delighted to receive Prof. Babatunde, whom he described as a source of inspiration to many accomplished academics including himself.
He said that African School of Economics was starting a three-day event to mark the International Day of Peace with the seminar. He recalled that the International Day of Peace was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982 by Resolution 36/67 and it was first observed on September 21, 1982. He added the formal declaration of September 21 as the annual Peace Day was adopted through Resolution 55/582 of the United Nations General Assembly in 2001.
He encouraged participants to attend the remaining activities climazing with a Peace Walk on the Peace Day on Saturday, September 21 and urged Nigerians to be intentional about “Cultivating a Culture of Peace”, which is the theme of this year’s Peace Day. He expressed satisfaction by recalling that the Peace Day is marked by several organisations across the world and his alma mater, the University of Ilorin, has been commemorating it each year since he introduced it about 10 years ago while serving as the Director of its Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies.
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